Officers investigating the death of Birmingham teenager Connor Smith have revealed he died as a result of a gunshot wound to his abdomen.

Officers were called to Forde Way Gardens in Hawkesley, Kings Norton, at 11.30pm on Thursday, where they found the 19-year-old lying critically injured.

The student, who was reported to have desperately tried to escape from his killer, was taken to hospital where we was pronounced dead a short time later.

Detective Inspector Warren Hines, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are continuing today to make enquiries to locate the person or persons responsible for Connor’s death.

“It is horrific that such a young man has lost his life and I would urge anyone who has information about Connor’s death or who is responsible to do the right thing and come forward and speak to me as soon as possible,”

Specialist officers continue to support Connor’s family and officers said they had received “a large number of calls” about the killing.

Meanwhile, many shocked people have taken to social media to express their condolences at the loss of a young life.

Lisa Knight wrote: “R.I.P Connor, yet another young life taken. God bless to his family Xx.”

Kevin Baxter posted: “Such a shocking and terrible waste of a young human life.”

Amanda Connor said: “R.I.P Connor, my thoughts and prayers go out to your family and friends at such a difficult time hope those who did this to this young lad get caught soon and get locked up for a very long time.”

Kelli Richards posted: “This is awful sleep tight sweetheart what a cruel world we live in xxx.”

Connor was described as a “lovely lad” by a friend who asked not to be named.

He said: “I always got on with him great. I just can’t believe what has happened to him.”

A stunned neighbour said: “I think the community are in shock around here at the moment. For a lad to be shot and killed literally on our doorsteps is just shocking.”

Anyone with information should contact DI Hines in Force CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.